June 23, 2022 3:20 a.m.
With Thursday the start of the 2022 fireworks retail season, “Keep it legal, keep it safe”, is the message from the Oregon Office of State Fire Marshal.
An OSFM release said to reduce the risk of starting a wildfire, some governments in Oregon have put in place regulations, perhaps including bans, on the sale or use of fireworks. The release said its important to check local regulations and follow them, whether at home or traveling.
OSFM Assistant Chief Deputy Mark Johnston said, “Every year, we see fires started because of improper use or use of illegal fireworks. Our message is to keep it legal and keep it safe as people celebrate the holiday”.
Consumer legal fireworks can only be purchased from permitted fireworks retailers and stands. State regulations also limit where those fireworks may be used. People who plan to visit public lands and parks are asked to leave all fireworks at home. The possession and use of fireworks are prohibited in national parks and forests, on Bureau of Land Management lands, U.S. Fish and Wildlife properties, state beaches, state parks and in-state campgrounds. The use of fireworks is also prohibited on many private lands protected by the Oregon Department of Forestry.
The release said for residents who purchase legal fireworks, fire officials encourage everyone to:
*Be prepared before lighting fireworks: keep water available by using a garden hose or bucket
*Be safe when lighting fireworks: keep children and pets away from fireworks. Never use fireworks near or on dry grass or vegetation
*Be responsible after lighting fireworks: never relight a dud. Wait for fifteen to twenty minutes, then soak it in a bucket of water before disposal
*Be aware: use only legal fireworks and use them only in legal places
Oregon law prohibits the possession, use or sale of any firework that flies into the air, explodes, or travels more than twelve feet horizontally on the ground, without a permit issued by OSFM. Bottle rockets, Roman candles, and firecrackers are illegal in Oregon without a permit.
More information at: https://www.oregon.gov/osp/programs/sfm/pages/default.aspx